education.vic.gov.au

Policy

The purpose of this policy is to ensure schools offer the appropriate level of support for students who need supervision when eating or drinking for their safety and wellbeing at school.

Details

It is recommended that schools develop a Student Health Support Plan (DOCX)External Link for any student who, for medical reasons, requires supervision when eating and drinking.

Requirement for supervision

Students may need supervision with eating and drinking when they:

  • have difficulty with oral intake of food and drink and need assistance with the procedure
  • are not able to manage the volume of intake necessary for their health and wellbeing
  • have complex medical needs such as:
    • taking food or fluid via a tube through their nose or directly into their stomach (via nasal or gastric tube feeding)
    • risk of aspiration (inhaling food or fluid into the lung) and require suctioning

Actions

For students who need supervision whilst eating and drinking schools should request the student’s medical/health practitioner such as a speech pathologist completes a Personal Care Medical Advice Form – Oral Eating and Drinking (DOCX)External Link and must develop a Student Health Support Plan (DOCX)External Link to address routine and special events, such as parties.

Students with complex medical needs may be referred to the Schoolcare Program.External Link

Department policy on supporting students who need help when eating or drinking for their safety

Reviewed 27 May 2024

Policy last updated

15 June 2020

Scope

  • Schools

Contact

Health Promotion, Prevention and Advice Unit

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